“Lap and Dye” refers to a method for examining the fallopian tubes for obstructions or other problems. A “lap” is a laparoscopy, which is a procedure that involves inserting a very small camera through a small incision just below the navel to examine the abdominal and uterine cavity. The fallopian tubes can be tested by passing a dye through the cervix and watching for its appearance at the far end of the fallopian tube. This test can be used to establish whether or not there are any obstructions within the fallopian tube which could prevent the clear passage of egg and sperm. The laparoscopy is also used to determine whether there is any endometrial tissue growing within the uterus which could affect implantation, or identify the presence of any uterine fibroids, myomas or obstructions.

Similarly, a “lap and dye” also includes a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) which is an x-ray of the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes taken after injecting an opaque medium which shows up on the X-ray through the neck of the womb. Patients do not tend to experience immediate discomfort from an HSG, but there will be some post-operative discomfort and the after effects of anaesthesia.

Using the diagnosis from the specialists who carried out the “lap and dye” procedure, Naava Carman will know whether the obstruction is caused by scar tissue, fibroids, fluid, or other issue. Traditional Chinese Medicine theorises that blockages can only occur when the body Qi (energy) is not in balance. Using the Western medical diagnosis, Naava will classify the condition in Traditional Chinese Medicine terms as to whether the problem is caused by “stagnation”, “damp”, “phlegm”, “stasis”, or another issue. This classification will then guide Naava in developing specifically tailored herbal medicine and acupuncture treatments to support the patient.

Naava will tend to recommend a programme of treatments over three menstrual cycles and a further lap and dye test at the end to ascertain the extent of any change that has taken place.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complementary therapy and the Fertility Support Company does not advocate it as an alternative to Western medicine. If you are in any doubt about your health or symptoms you are experiencing you should consult your doctor. The Fertility Support Company and its practitioners do not claim to “cure” blocked fallopian tubes or any other ailment.